The Abbotts boss insists that the goalless draw today against Hertford Town was secondary to more pressing matters.

Paul Wickington is moulding a squad to compete in the Ryman one north next season, in what will be his maiden campaign as manager of a club on step four of the football pyramid.

“The result's not important. Today was purely about fitness, it's simple as that.

“Everyone played 45 minutes. We have 22 players and we want to get them together and working on patterns of play.

“We will play a very attacking game this season, and look to press opponents when we don't have the ball. We are not interested in long football at all.”

“We are always open to new players but at the moment I'm pretty much happy with what we have.

Wickington was thrust to the fore at Abbey by the surprise departure of Glen Alzapedi, earlier this summer.

He admitted he did not expect Alzapedi to quit, but does understand his motives, one year after Alzapedi recruited him to Abbey FC.

“I was a bit surprised when he left but I know he's a very ambitious man. He wanted to stay in the Ryman Premier and maybe he had served his apprenticeship in Ryman one. When Canvey Island came calling it was too good an opportunity to turn down.

“I wish all the best because I owe a lot to him for helping me get this opportunity. This is my first job as boss of the first team. I've been boss for a short time and I haven't stopped.”

So which teams does Wickington expect will set the pace when the Ryman one north campaign kicks off on August 21?

“Enfield Town are going to be a very decent and strong side and they will be there or there abouts at the end of the season” he said.

“Harlow Town have brought in some very good players and I think Brentwood will do okay too.”

Wickington's first competitive match as Abbotts boss is away to Enfield Town on the first day of the season.